Page 100 of Touch Me

Me:

I’m definitely available for drinks. Does Jace know about this?

Jess:

Not yet, but we should probably tell him. He isn’t much for surprises.

Me:

Exactly. He’s right here. Want me to ask him?

Jess:

Yeah I guess.

“Hey, Jess is asking if you want to have dinner for your birthday.” Jace freezes and levels me with his eyes.

“What kind of dinner? Like just Jess? And you?” His finger starts tapping on the counter, and he shifts his weight from one foot to the other three times in as many seconds.

Me:

He wants to know who is invited? Just you and me?

Ella:

Umm, hello? I like food.

Jess:

I was thinking us, and Ella of course you, and maybe Jack and my parents?

Jace is currently gnawing at his cuticles. “She said us, and maybe Jack and your parents.”

“Nope.” And he walks away.

“Jace?” I struggle to keep up with his long strides as he turns toward his bedroom. “Care to elaborate?”

“What’s to elaborate? I said no.”

“Why not?”

He turns so sharply I almost run into him. “You know what, go ahead. My dad won’t come anyway.” He throws his arms out to the side. “And if my dad doesn’t come, my mom won’t come.” He turns and walks into the bathroom and shuts the door.

Well ok then.

Me:

It’s looking like a no go. Let's talk more over drinks.

Ella:

DRINKS. NO EDIBLES.

Me:

Agreed, that was fun though. Ya know, from what I remember.

Jess:

---